Recalling women in uniform

Published March 31, 2009
By Capt. Jennifer Pearson
380 Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- The 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, women's history committee hosted a lunch symposium here on Mar. 28. The theme, "Recalling Women in Uniform" highlighted the contributions of female Airmen and Soldiers both past and present.

A panel consisting of senior leaders, squadron commanders and functional specialists shared their experiences and thoughts on the contributions of their predecessors and where they see the future opportunities of females to excel.

"We wanted an opportunity to recognize those who paved the way for us to come into the service," said Capt. Sherry Souriolle, 380th AEW Sexual Assault Response Coordinator and symposium coordinator. "What a great way to highlight the contributions of females but in a deployed environment."

Brig. Gen. H.D. Polumbo Jr., 380th AEW commander provided the opening remarks and stated that "women have always made significant contributions to the military." General Polumbo was a 1981 Air Force Academy graduate, the second Academy class that included women cadets, and the first to be trained by female upper classmen.

The panel answered questions ranging from women serving in combat, personal hurdles experienced in their career, and key factors to their individual successes.
Members of the panel said staying true to self, commitment to what you do, family, identifying mentors and setting goals were integral to their success and a rewarding career.

"I am a first generation immigrant to the United States," said 1st Lt. Catalina Rosales. "After graduating high school, getting my bachelors and then master's degree I wanted to give back to this country for all I was given. I decided a great way for me to give back is by serving in the U.S. Army."

From when Debora Sampson dressed as a man and enlisted in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary war to the new recruits of today, we are reminded to look back at the women who formed the foundation and encouraged us to look forward to the impact of the women to follow.